Two Wood Merchants Missing After Boat Capsizes in Ogun

Two wood merchants, identified as Ahohe Seido and Dogbon, are missing after the boat carrying them capsized in the Gbòde Jedo River in Odofin, Ipokia Local Government Area of Ogun State.

The incident occurred around 7:00 a.m. on Thursday, September 12, 2024, while the merchants and others were transporting firewood from their village to the Benin Republic for sale.

Ogun State Police Command spokesperson Omolola Odutola confirmed the incident, noting that the boat capsized due to a storm.

“A report of a tragic incident was filed at the Ipokia Division on September 12, 2024, around 7:00 a.m. Two individuals, Awhanse Jimoh (male) and Ahohe Jimoh (male), both wood merchants from Ilepa Village in Ipokia, reported the incident to the Divisional Police Officer,” the PPRO stated.

“As per their account, two other individuals, Ahohe Seido and another known only by the alias Dogbon, were transporting firewood along the Gbodo Jego River in Ijofin, Ipokia, Ogun State, en route to Benin Republic to sell the goods

“While crossing the river, a sudden strong current caused their boat to capsize, throwing everyone onboard into the water. Despite rescue efforts, only two individuals were saved and brought to shore.

“Tragically, Ahohe Seido and Dogbon did not survive the incident, and despite extensive search efforts by divers, their bodies have yet to be recovered.”

Odutola noted that community divers are actively participating in the ongoing search and rescue operations to locate the missing individuals.

“An investigation has been initiated to confirm the details of the boat accident and verify the statements given by the two survivors.

“The Commissioner of Police, Abiodun Alamutu, is aware of the incident and hopes for the safe recovery of the missing persons. He has noted that with the return of the rains, it is advisable to wear life jackets to mitigate the risks associated with such hazards,” she added.